The Failure of Manzoor Pashteen: Causes and Realities

The Failure of Manzoor Pashteen: Causes and Realities

During the peak of Manzoor Pashteen’s movement, many of us foresaw its challenges in achieving its objectives. Not only its long-term success was unrealistic but also its short-term objectives appeared unattainable.

Here are the primary reasons for its failure:

Reactionary Nature of the Movement:
Movements driven by reactionary motives rarely succeed in creating sustainable change. History shows that reactionary uprisings are often short-lived, lacking the foundation required for enduring progress.

Absence of Strategic Planning:
From the outset, the movement relied heavily on emotional appeal, publicity, and rhetoric rather than focusing on well-structured short-term and long-term planning. The lack of a coherent strategy eventually led the movement to collapse under the weight of its own unbridled emotions.

Lack of a Unified Think Tank:
For any movement to thrive, particularly one representing an ethnic group, establishing a unified think tank is essential. Such a platform could have analyzed the region’s resources and challenges, fostered consensus among Pashtuns, and defined clear objectives. It could also have provided insights into what the youth desired ? where political organizations stood ? and how collective goals could be achieved ? Unfortunately, this critical step was overlooked.

Misuse of Symbolism and the Afghan Flag:
The adoption of the Afghan flag and slogans like “Lar o Bar Yao Afghan” alienated a significant portion of Pashtuns in Pakistan.Many Pashtuns do not identify with these symbols in their political aspirations, and their inclusion created unnecessary divisions.
The movement failed to anticipate the negative perception.

Many Pashtuns in Pakistan identify primarily as Pakistanis and view the Afghan flag as politically provocative. This symbolic misstep not only divided the movement internally but also allowed critics to frame it as a secessionist agenda, undermining its legitimacy.

Deviation from Core Issues:
Instead of addressing tangible issues like resources, infrastructure, and economic disparities, the movement diverted its focus toward critiquing Pakistan’s founding figures and national symbols. This approach not only derailed the movement from its core objectives but also alienated moderate supporters who might have otherwise sympathized with its cause.

Failure to Build Alliances:
The movement failed to secure the support of Pashtun political parties, intellectuals, and scholars. Without their involvement, it struggled to build a broad-based coalition, leaving it isolated and lacking the legitimacy needed for a sustainable impact.

Poor Management of the Jirga:
The jirga, which could have been a cornerstone for uniting the Pashtuns and outlining a comprehensive strategy, was marred by emotional declarations, weak organization, and vague resolutions. Instead of strengthening the movement, it further exposed its structural weaknesses.
Conclusion.
Manzoor Pashteen’s movement, while rooted in legitimate grievances, ultimately failed due to a lack of strategic vision, poor planning, and divisive symbolism. Its over-reliance on emotional appeals, coupled with its inability to address core issues and build alliances, undermined its credibility and effectiveness.

This case serves as a cautionary tale for grassroots movements: without a clear vision, unified leadership, and pragmatic strategies, even the most well-intentioned efforts risk collapsing under their own weight

Prof.Abdul Wahid Nasar,Quetta.

E.mail: wahidpak47@gmail.com